Kotli Bhel Trek Rishikesh – Mini Gartang Gali | One Day Offbeat Trek

If you are looking for an offbeat one-day trek near Rishikesh, away from crowds and close to nature, then the Kotli Bhel Trek, now famously called Mini Gartang Gali of Rishikesh, is a must-visit destination.

This hidden trail in Uttarakhand has recently gone viral on Instagram and YouTube, but its exact location is still unknown to many travelers. Walking along the banks of the Ganga River, through lush green valleys and ancient stone paths, this trek offers a rare mix of adventure, spirituality, meditation, and history.

In this detailed guide, you’ll learn where Kotli Bhel Trek is located, how to reach it easily, trekking distance, difficulty level, and why it is compared to Gartang Gali.

What is Kotli Bhel Trek (Mini Gartang Gali)?

The Kotli Bhel Trek is an ancient pilgrimage and trade route used by our forefathers to travel towards Kedarnath and Badrinath via Devprayag and Rudraprayag.

Today, a section of this historic trail has been developed by PWD with wooden railings, similar to the famous Gartang Gali in Nelong Valley (Uttarkashi). Because of this resemblance, travelers now call it Mini Gartang Gali near Rishikesh.

📍 Important Note:
Despite popular belief, Kotli Bhel is NOT in Rishikesh city. It is located in Pauri Garhwal district, around 40 km from Rishikesh.

Why is Kotli Bhel Trek So Popular?

• Looks like Gartang Gali at a much easier level

• Less crowded & still offbeat

• Walk along the Ganga River cliffs

• Ancient stone-cut trail through Shivalik forests

• Ideal for meditation, photography & nature lovers

• Perfect one-day trek from Rishikesh

Kotli Bhel Trek Starting Points

You can start the Mini Gartang Gali Trek from two locations:

1️⃣ Mahadev Chatti (Recommended)

• Most popular & easiest access

• Around 1–2 km downhill walk to reach the Ganga

• Wooden bridge marks the trek starting point

2️⃣ Kaudiyala

• Suitable for experienced trekkers

• Longer approach

• Less commonly used

👉 Best choice: Start from Mahadev Chatti

Kotli Bhel Trek Route Description

• Trek begins after crossing a beautiful wooden bridge

• Trail follows the left bank of River Ganga

• Mix of rocky paths, stone steps & wooden walkways

• Passes through dense jungle & river cliffs

• You’ll encounter a beautiful waterfall midway

• Stunning views of the Ganga Valley below

📏 Distance Options:

• Easy walk: 5–6 km along the river

• Kotli Bhel to Simalu Village: ~9 km trek

• Kotli Bhel to Nand Village: ~16 km (maximum)

Most visitors return via the same route, making it a perfect day hike.

One Day Trek Near Rishikesh – Difficulty Level

Kotli Bhel Trek Difficulty

• Easy to Moderate

• Suitable for:

  • Beginners

  • Nature lovers

  • History & culture explorers

  • Photographers

  • Spiritual seekers

No technical climbing required, but good shoes are essential due to rocky sections.

Spiritual & Historical Experience

Walking on Kotli Bhel Trail feels like stepping back in time.

• Ancient Himalayan pilgrimage route

• Stone-cut paths carved into mountains

• Wooden bridges like old trade routes

• Continuous sound of flowing Ganga

• Ideal place for silence, meditation & introspection

This trek truly represents the soul of the Himalayas.

Waterfall on Kotli Bhel Trek

One of the highlights of the Mini Gartang Gali Rishikesh Trek is a hidden waterfall along the route.

• Best during monsoon & post-monsoon

• Great spot for rest & photography

• Cold, fresh Himalayan water

Exact Location: Kotli Bhel Trek

• District: Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand

• Distance from Rishikesh: ~40 km

• Driving Time: ~1 hour

⚠️ Many videos wrongly tag it as Rishikesh, but it lies beyond the city limits.

How to Reach Kotli Bhel Trek from Rishikesh

1. Reach Rishikesh

2. Drive towards Devprayag road

3. Stop at Mahadev Chatti

4. Walk 1–2 km downhill towards Ganga River

5. Cross the wooden bridge

6. Trek starts immediately after the bridge

🚗 Best option: Taxi or self-drive
🚌 Bus: Limited local buses till Mahadev Chatti

Best Time to Visit Kotli Bhel Trek

• ✅ October to April – Best weather

• ⚠️ Monsoon (July–September) – Slippery but scenic

• ❌ Avoid heavy rain days due to landslide risk

Essential Tips for Kotli Bhel Trek

• Wear good trekking shoes

• Carry water & snacks

• Start early in the day

• Avoid solo trekking if unfamiliar

• Do not litter – keep it eco-friendly

• Mobile network is limited

Why You Should Visit Mini Gartang Gali Rishikesh

If you love:

• Offbeat trekking

• Ancient Himalayan routes

• Peaceful nature walks

• River valley landscapes

• Hidden gems near Rishikesh

👉 Kotli Bhel Trek is a lifetime experience you shouldn’t miss.